Tankless Water-heater
Tankless Water-heater | Plumbing | Knoxville
Imagine stepping into a Knoxville shower that never runs cold—HEP’s tankless water-heater expertise turns that daydream into your daily routine. By heating water on demand, these compact units slash standby energy loss and free up valuable storage space, all while delivering a continuous stream of comfort. Whether you’re upgrading a growing household or seeking a green solution for a cozy condo, our local pros have the know-how to match the perfect system to your lifestyle and budget.
From the first call to the final test run, you’ll feel the difference our licensed plumbing specialists bring to the job. We arrive on time, protect your home like it’s our own, and back every installation with rock-solid warranties and 24/7 support—because hot water emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Choose HEP, and discover why Knoxville homeowners trust us to keep the water hot, the utility bills low, and the smiles wide.
FAQs
How does a tankless water heater work and is it suitable for Knoxville’s climate?
Unlike traditional tanks that keep 40–50 gallons of water hot all day, a tankless unit uses high-powered gas burners or electric elements to heat water only when a fixture is opened. In Knoxville, where incoming water temperature averages 55–60 °F in winter and 65–70 °F in summer, tankless heaters perform very well. The units simply modulate their flame to meet the required temperature rise, so you enjoy endless hot water without standby heat loss, regardless of season.
What size tankless unit do I need for my Knoxville home?
Sizing is based on two factors: 1) the required temperature rise (Knoxville needs roughly a 60 °F rise to reach 120 °F hot water in winter) and 2) the peak flow rate you expect to run simultaneously (e.g., shower + dishwasher). Most three-to-four-bathroom households in Knoxville do well with a gas unit rated at 9–11 gallons per minute (GPM). Smaller apartments or point-of-use applications can use 4–6 GPM models or electric units. A plumbing professional will calculate your exact demand and recommend an appropriately sized model to avoid lukewarm water during peak usage.
Are tankless water heaters more energy-efficient and how much can I save on utility bills?
Yes. Because they eliminate standby heat loss, gas tankless units are 20–35 % more efficient than standard storage tanks, while ENERGY STAR-rated electric models can reach efficiencies above 98 %. For Knoxville customers on natural gas, that typically translates to $80–$120 in annual savings for an average family. Electric tankless heaters lower usage but savings depend on TVA electricity rates; many homeowners see 10–15 % off their water-heating charges.
What is the installation process and do I need permits in Knoxville?
A licensed plumber will first assess gas line capacity or electrical service, venting routes, and mounting location. Gas units often require upsizing to a ¾-inch line and stainless-steel concentric venting through an exterior wall or roof. Electric units may need a dedicated 60–120 amp breaker. The City of Knoxville and Knox County require mechanical/plumbing permits and, for gas units, an inspection by Codes Enforcement. A professional installer will pull permits, complete the work in one day, and schedule the final inspection so your warranty remains valid.
How long do tankless water heaters last and what maintenance is required?
Tankless heaters have a life expectancy of 18–25 years—roughly double that of storage tanks. To reach the upper end of that range, flush the heat exchanger once a year (twice if your home has hard water over 8 gpg) to remove scale. This service takes about 45 minutes. Cleaning the inlet screen filter every six months and checking venting for debris are also recommended. Most manufacturers offer 10–15-year heat exchanger warranties when annual maintenance records are kept.
Can a tankless heater supply enough hot water for multiple fixtures running simultaneously?
Absolutely—if properly sized. Modern high-capacity units can deliver 9–11 GPM at a 60 °F rise, enough for two showers and a washing machine at once. Some homes opt for a whole-house unit plus small point-of-use models in distant bathrooms to eliminate wait times. If your demand occasionally exceeds one unit’s capacity, we can install a parallel manifold system that stages two heaters together, ensuring all fixtures in your Knoxville home stay hot even during holiday gatherings.